Paramedics rushed to save the boys, ages 9 and 7, flying them to hospitals. The 7-year-old boy, identified as Octavius Stone, died from his injuries. His friend, 9-year-old Emil “Ozzie” Velez, was reported to be in good condition on Monday.

“Right now, we’re just making sure he’s OK physically, taking care of his bruises, his wounds, and things like that,” said Velez’s uncle, Bobby Brown. “As far as dealing with the emotional scars, we’re probably going to get him counseling.”

Barbara Brown said her grandson was saved by “the grace of God.” She described Stone as a sweet boy.

“I think the word sweet doesn't describe him. He was better than that,” she said.

Virgil Coonfare, 66, has been charged with homicide by vehicle while under the influence, aggravated assault while under the influence and DUI.

Witnesses said Coonfare’s yellow truck blew through a stop sign on Winslow Avenue at Stanton Street in New Castle about 3 p.m. Sunday. The truck went out of control, according to witnesses, and drove into a yard -- smashing into the children.

The driver slammed into a light pole and continued down the street before crashing into a front yard.

Police said Coonfare was under the influence of prescription drugs and failed a field sobriety test.

Neighbors told Channel 4 Action News the man was slurring his speech and got out of his truck with one shoe and one sock on.

“The man came out of his truck to where that green car is and said, ‘I didn't even see the kids.’ How could you not see two at the top of the steps?’” said Barbara Brown.

When asked if he was intoxicated at the time of the crash, Coonfare told Channel 4 Action News’ Bob Hazen, “No sir. Something happened with the vehicle.”

When asked what happened to the truck, Coonfare then told Hazen, “I’m not a mechanic. I can’t answer that. I want it impounded and checked out.”

He also said that he was “terribly sorry” and has three grandchildren of his own.

Family members said they expected prison time for Coonfare.

"He just took my nephew, and I'm pissed about it," the boy's aunt, Lorraine Clark, said.

The family is asking for donations to cover the cost of funeral services. To help, go to any PNC Bank and donate to the fund titled Octavius Stone Fund.

The boy's father, Kris Stone, said his son wanted to serve the public when he grew up.

"He wanted to be a superhero. He wanted to one day be a police or military; he wanted to be a real superhero. I'm going to miss him so much," he said.